2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The 2020 Land Rover Defender evoked nostalgia with its classic, boxy design reminiscent of the beloved LR4. Its squared-off edges, rising roofline, and round headlights were a nod to traditional Land Rover aesthetics. The Defender's rugged exterior, complete with short overhangs and skid plates, was designed for off-road adventures. Despite some modern touches like plastic step plates and a three-piece ladder, the Defender retained its utilitarian charm. Inside, the cabin was industrial and basic, with exposed screws and a slab-sided design. While not luxurious, it was functional, with options for water-resistant synthetic materials and a practical layout.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover embraced luxury and sophistication. With a starting price of $92,000, it offered a wide range of powertrains and personalization options. The HSE Westminster special edition featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering 395 horsepower. The Range Rover's design was timeless, with hallmark cues like blacked-out pillars and clean lines. Inside, it exuded luxury with high-quality leather upholstery and a mid-century modern ambiance. However, the second-row seating was less comfortable, and storage space was limited. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained its status as a symbol of opulence.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender offered a choice between a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 296 horsepower and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower. The latter, a mild hybrid, provided smooth power delivery and impressive off-road capabilities. The Defender excelled in off-road scenarios, thanks to its Terrain Response 2 system and adjustable-height suspension. It could tackle steep inclines, deep water, and challenging terrain with ease. On-road, it was quiet and comfortable, though its handling was reminiscent of older SUVs, with slow steering and noticeable body roll.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrains, including turbodiesel V6 and supercharged V8 engines. The HSE Westminster edition featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 395 horsepower. The Range Rover's adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, and its 4WD system ensured off-road prowess. However, it was best suited for a leisurely pace, as its steering was slow and the suspension struggled with its weight. The Range Rover excelled in comfort and refinement, with a quiet cabin and effortless acceleration.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender prioritized functionality and durability. Its interior was designed for practicality, with options for a jump seat and third-row seating. The Defender 90 could accommodate up to six passengers, while the 110 offered seating for seven. Cargo space varied depending on the configuration, with up to 79 cubic feet available. The Defender's rugged design extended to its towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, and it was built to withstand tough conditions.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a luxurious interior with comfortable front seats and high-quality materials. However, the second-row seating was less accommodating, with limited thigh support and a slouched position. Storage space was also limited, with a maximum cargo capacity of 59.8 cubic feet. The Range Rover's air suspension made entry and exit easier, and it featured advanced climate control and entertainment options for rear passengers.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender featured the Pivi Pro infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous versions. It offered a 10-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of off-road displays. The system was user-friendly, though some interface issues persisted. The Defender also included advanced safety features like 360-degree cameras and emergency braking.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover utilized the InControl Touch Pro Duo system, with dual 10-inch touchscreens and a digital instrument cluster. While comprehensive, the system was not entirely intuitive and could be distracting while driving. The Range Rover offered a range of technology features, including a head-up display, voice control, and a waterproof Activity Key wristband.

The 2020 Land Rover Defender came with standard safety features like forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. However, it lacked ratings from U.S. crash testing agencies and did not include knee or rear side airbags.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous parking. The HSE Westminster Edition included several safety packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.